The Kilgore College Electric Power Technology program will host a Lineman’s Rodeo May 10 to showcase graduates of the ninth class to complete the Marketable Skills Certificate.

The rodeo and graduation is set for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rusk County Electric Cooperative training grounds in Henderson, located at 3162 State Highway 43 East.

The Spring 2013 Rodeo and Graduation will be held in memory of Danny Belcher of Kaufman, who was a founding member of the KC Electric Power Certificate Advisory Committee and an integral instructor during each of the nine classes beginning in 2008.

The event is free and open to the public.

Ten students have completed the 10-week course of study that began March 4 at the KC—Henderson campus.

The rodeo will serve as a demonstration of lineworkers’ skills learned during the KC course of study.

During the Lineman’s Rodeo graduates will demonstrate pole climbing, and while at the top of the cross-arm will complete hurt man rescue and insulator changing exercises.

At graduation, students will receive their KC Electric Power Technology Marketable Skills Certificate. Recognitions for other achievements during the course of study will be presented. The Danny Belcher Walking the Wood recognition will be awarded to the most improved pole climber.

Other awards are Outstanding Student, based on class grades and field competencies, and Most Supportive Teammate, selected by class vote.

Anyone interested in learning about a career in the electric power technology field is encouraged to attend.

The Electric Power Technology Certificate program has attracted students from three states and from throughout Texas.

With a large number of projected employee retirements within the next five to seven years, statewide electric distribution companies, municipalities and utility companies are expecting a large shortage of workers.

Fall lineman courses will run from September 9 through November 15 of 2013.

Potential students will be able to meet instructors and ask questions at information sessions set for 6:30 p.m. on June 6 and July 11 in the Bert E. Woodruff Adult Education Center in Kilgore.